Your Voice in Congress: May 15, 2026 Update from Rep. Baumgartner
It was a busy and productive week in Washington, DC, as we welcomed law enforcement officers from across the country during National Police Week and honored the men and women who put their lives on the line to keep our communities safe.
The House also advanced several public safety measures focused on accountability and transparency, including legislation addressing dangerous cashless bail practices and oversight of charitable bail funds. These bills reflect a simple principle: communities deserve safe streets, support for law enforcement, and confidence that violent offenders are not being rushed back onto the streets without accountability.
Back in the district, I visited the final stops in my 12 Counties in 12 Days visit, holding valuable meetings with individuals and groups before returning to DC. My district team continued to support constituents and attend a variety of local events, ensuring that your voices are clearly heard in DC. My team is always available to assist with federal agencies and is proud to serve the community of Eastern Washington.
This Week In the 5th District – Final Visits of the 12 Counties Tour
SPOKANE COUNTY
West Plains Chamber of Commerce
We began last Friday at the Northern Quest Casino Hotel with a warm welcome from members of the West Plains Chamber of Commerce. Our discussion focused on the recent passage of the Farm Bill out of the House, access to foreign markets for Washington agricultural products, ensuring that hydropower remains the preeminent source of energy for the northwest, how to meet growing energy demand, and the role the federal government plays, or should play in helping to fund road projects and other local priorities in the region. Many thanks to WPCC’s new executive director Jon Wyss for making this happen.
A great stop in Cheney with members of American Legion Post #72. Thank you for all you do supporting veterans in our community.
It is an honor to represent these heroes and grill masters. And yes, the hot dog was delicious!
WHITMAN COUNTY
Rosalia City Hall
As we headed south on Friday, we stopped at Rosalia City Hall to meet with Mayor John Goyke and local leaders for updates on community road and water projects and to hear how the community of Rosalia is doing more broadly. I appreciate the time that Mayor Goyke and the Rosalia team took to meet with us!
Oakesdale City Hall and History Museum
Next stop was at Oakesdale City Hall, where I met with Mayor Palmer, City Clerk Mary DeGon, and members of the Council. We toured the Oakesdale Museum, which features an impressive collection of local military history, Palouse farming equipment, and other artifacts that preserve the story of the region. It is a remarkable reminder of the deep roots and traditions that continue to shape Eastern Washington communities today.
Pullman Meetings
We finished Friday in Pullman with a town hall and meetings with community leaders from across Whitman County. Discussions focused on regional priorities, including rail and airport infrastructure projects, economic development and community needs.
I also met with representatives of the Baha’i faith who talked about ongoing persecution of the followers of Baha’i in Iran.
ADAMS COUNTY
Ritzville Town Hall
On Monday, I convened a town hall with 22 members of the Ritzville community.
We discussed how conflicts between state and federal immigration policy plays out in communities like Ritzville, the need to significantly improve civics education in Washington communities, and the amendment to the Farm Bill that I submitted to expand and improve farmland irrigation in the western US.
Washtucna
I had the pleasure of meeting with people of Washtucna to discuss urgently needed federal funding for a municipal water project, in addition to other priorities. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the people of Washtucna and value their time and commitment to their community.
My team attended other meetings and local events including:
Friends of the Republic Library, “Garden Party” Appreciation Dinner & Auction
My staff attended an important gathering of community volunteers and leaders who have been instrumental in the development of the new library and early learning center in Republic – a vital project I support.
This project will also include licensed childcare services—an important need in many rural communities across the district where families often face limited childcare options. It is encouraging to see local volunteers and organizations working together to strengthen opportunities for families and children in rural Eastern Washington.
Union Gospel Mission: 75th Anniversary
My staff was honored to attend the Union Gospel Mission’s 75th Anniversary Dinner, recognizing the organization’s incredible legacy of service to our community. With more than 900 attendees gathered for the evening, the event highlighted the lasting impact Union Gospel Mission has made through its commitment to providing hope, shelter, recovery, and support to those in need. During the dinner, my staff presented an award to Executive Director Phil Altmeyer in recognition of the organization’s 75 years of faithful service. My video message also congratulated Union Gospel Mission on this milestone anniversary and recognized the invaluable role the organization continues to play in transforming lives throughout our region.
Groundbreaking of Tekoa Mountain Business Park
Yesterday, my staff was honored to join elected officials from Tekoa and Whitman County at a ground breaking of the Tekoa Mountain Business Park. On full build-out, the park will potentially support over one-hundred industrial and light industrial jobs in northern Whitman County and provide easy access for population centers in Spokane County, Idaho, and in Pullman. Congratulations to the staff and Board members at the Port of Whitman, the Washington Community Economic Revitalization Board, and to all who brought the project to this point.
Spokane Valley Chamber – Public Safety Awards
My staff attended the Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce Public Safety Awards recognizing the outstanding service and sacrifice of the men and women who work every day to keep our communities safe. The event highlighted the dedication of first responders, law enforcement officers, firefighters, dispatchers, and public safety professionals from across the Spokane Valley. It was a great opportunity to celebrate those who demonstrate exceptional courage, professionalism, and commitment to serving their communities. We are grateful for the individuals who work tirelessly to protect and serve the Spokane Valley and the surrounding region every day.
I’m very appreciative of groups sharing their work and ideas both with me directly and with my team, and I encourage others in the community to be in contact with us and keep us informed.
This Week in DC
Spokane County Sheriffs
In Washington, DC, this week, I was honored to welcome the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office Honor Guard Team and former colleagues of Sergeant Kenneth Salas, who passed away in the line of duty last year. Sergeant Kenneth Salas was added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial wall, which honors federal, tribal, state, and local law enforcement and corrections officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice.
Following his passing last year, I spoke on the House floor to honor Sergeant Kenneth Salas. You can view my speech below.
LEGISLATION
Cashless Bail Reporting Act
The House passed a series of public safety and government accountability bills aimed at giving communities better information about policies that directly affect neighborhood safety and trust in local institutions. One of the most significant measures, the Cashless Bail Reporting Act, requires the Department of Justice to publicly identify jurisdictions that allow individuals accused of serious violent or sexual offenses to be released through cashless bail or unsecured appearance bonds. The goal is straightforward: give citizens greater transparency into how local bail systems are operating and whether dangerous offenders are being released back into the community before trial.
Supporting Law Enforcement
The House also passed legislation increasing oversight of charitable bail funds and strengthening accountability for long-running federal monitorships imposed on local governments. Together, these measures are intended to improve transparency, reinforce public confidence in the justice system, and ensure taxpayer-funded oversight remains focused, accountable, and effective. During National Police Week, these votes underscored Congress’s continued focus on supporting law enforcement and promoting safer communities.
Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Bill
The House also passed the FY2027 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations bill, a major investment in veterans’ health care, military readiness, and quality-of-life infrastructure for servicemembers and their families. For Eastern Washington, where thousands of veterans rely on Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center and where Fairchild Air Force Base remains central to our region, the bill delivers meaningful support—from veterans’ transportation programs to military family housing and readiness investments. At its core, the legislation reflects our region’s deep commitment to those who served and continue to serve our country.
West Coast Law Enforcement Coalition (WACOPS)
In recognition of National Police Week, I met with members of the West Coast Law Enforcement Coalition (WACOPS) to discuss efforts to strengthen recruitment and retention in law enforcement. We also talked about the importance of including law enforcement perspectives as Congress considers artificial intelligence and its impact on public safety. I’m grateful for their service and remain committed to supporting those who work every day to keep our communities safe. It was great to connect with Sergeant Tony Leonetti of the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Police, a WACOPS Board Member representing our region.
Timber Products Manufacturers Association
I met with representatives from the Timber Products Manufacturers Association to discuss the Small Business Timber Set-Aside Program and the importance of ensuring consistent access to timber for regional mills across our district. These conversations are critical to supporting local jobs, maintaining a strong forest products industry, and ensuring small businesses can continue to compete.
Diplomatic Meetings
This week, I had the pleasure of meeting with Ambassador Rizwan Seed Sheikh of Pakistan, Ambassador Elita Kuzma of Latvia, Ambassador Alexander Yui, Taiwan’s Representative to the U.S., and Peter Beyer, a Member of the German Bundestag and Transatlantic-Coordinator of the German Federal Government.
We discussed a variety of issues including arms sales, trade cooperation, opportunities for partnership, and more. Thank you to each representative for your thoughtful conversations.
My team also met with the following groups:
Edward Jones
My Legislative Director met with representatives from Edward Jones to discuss retirement security, financial literacy, and support for family caregivers. The conversation focused on ways to help working families and caregivers save more effectively for retirement and build long-term financial stability. We also discussed policies that encourage investing, reduce unexpected tax burdens, and help more Americans benefit from the power of long-term savings and compounding growth.
American Waterways Operators
Legislative staff met with American waterway operators who help move Eastern Washington wheat and agricultural products through the Snake and Columbia River system to global markets. They discussed the importance of the Jones Act in protecting American maritime jobs, shipbuilders, and domestic shipping operations from unfair foreign competition. We also discussed concerns about temporary Jones Act waivers and the importance of maintaining a strong, reliable river transportation network for regional agriculture.
Rockwool Insulation
This week, my staff met with Rockwool insulation, which is a high-performance mineral wool product offering thermal, acoustic, and fire-resistant properties for buildings and industrial applications. Its insulation is created using basalt rock – of which Eastern Washington has a plentiful supply. Rockwool is building a manufacturing facility in the Port of Walla Walla, bringing hundreds of good paying jobs to the region.
Eastern Washington Spotlight
Colville High School Rocket Club
On Thursday, I was pleased to welcome the Colville High School Rocket Club from Stevens County to Washington, DC, and recognize their achievement as finalists in the national American Rocketry Challenge during remarks on the House floor.
Their success is a proud moment for Eastern Washington and reflects the strong educational opportunities and student talent across our region. Congratulations to these outstanding students on this remarkable accomplishment. You can watch my floor speech below.
Announcing Eastern Washington University on the Hill – June 23-24
I’m pleased to announce EAG day on the Hill June 23-24. Join fellow Eastern Washington University faculty, administrators, students, and alums in Washington, DC for a reception at the Library of Congress and tour of the Capitol.
To RSVP and get detailed information please email EWU@mail.house.gov.
In the News
On Monday morning, I sat down with Kalae Chock at KHQ for a wide-ranging interview. We discussed military operations in Iran, what I’m doing as a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee to expand access to foreign markets for agriculture products from the district, promoting positive relations with China, and the necessity of preventing the jihadist Iranian government, which has brought about the deaths of over one-thousand Americans civilians and service members over the last four decades, from having nuclear weapons. You can find the KHQ Nonstop Local interview below.
Constituent Corner
Casework Win
I’m proud to share the story of George Howard, a constituent in Eastern Washington who received assistance from my staff to resolve a longstanding issue with the IRS.
“After 6 years of trying to get the refund due from the IRS and getting put off, I asked for help. Rep. Baumgartner’s staff was very kind and helpful. They resolved the issue and I finally received the refund.”
I’m grateful for the dedicated members of my team who work every day on behalf of Washington’s 5th District.
If you or someone you know needs assistance, please contact our Spokane office at 509-353-2374 or visit baumgartner.house.gov/services to learn more about the constituent services available to you.
Making a trip to DC? Contact My Office!
If you’re planning a trip to Washington, DC, I hope you’ll reach out to my DC office! My team and I are always happy to assist with arranging Capitol tours, White House tours, and other exciting opportunities to explore our nation’s capital.
Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, my team and I would love to help make your experience memorable. Just give us a call at (202) 225-2006 or visit baumgartner.house.gov/
Beginning June 4, 2026, unless you are subscribed to my weekly e-newsletter you will no longer receive it as we enter a 60-day communications blackout period.
It’s truly an honor to serve you.
Sincerely,
Rep. Michael Baumgartner
Member of Congress